Journeys: Iconic China

Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.

This morning, head out to the UNESCO World Heritage Site–Temple of Heaven. This peaceful place is where we meet your Tai Chi master for a private lesson of this ancient martial art, followed by time to explore the Temple. Lunch features Beijing’s specialty with a delicious serving of peking duck. Continue the exploration of Beijing with an afternoon tour of Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public spaces in the world with an infamous political history followed by the Forbidden City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once literally forbidden to those not part of the imperial power structure. Wander through the royal halls and beautiful courtyards-once home to emperors that shaped China’s imperial past.

Venture out of the city to one of the best-preserved sections of the Great Wall of China, as featured in the National Geographic article “Discover China's History Along the Great Wall”. A local expert who brings the history of this world wonder to life will meet us upon arrival for an easy hike along the wall surrounded by incredible mountain views and original, unrestored sections of this masterpiece. Then, have a seat on the Wall for a special drink and local snack and take it all in, a timeless China. Throughout the hike, the expert guide will bring stories of the Great Wall to life, sharing knowledge of emperors and wars as you sip your drink seated upon the ancient stone.

Head back to Beijing and catch the bullet train to the ancient capital city of Xi’an, once the gateway to the Silk Road. This dynamic city has towering skyscrapers but also boasts a century-old centre known as the Muslim Quarter. Upon arrival, take an orientation walk around the lively neighbourhood to get your footing in this spectacular city.

After breakfast, visit the impressive, life-sized soldiers that stand in silent formation at the Terracotta Warrior Museum. With over 8000 warriors, almost 1000 horses and chariots, this 2000-year-old tomb tells one of China’s greatest stories of historic military power. After a tour, lunch will be served just outside of the museum at a local family’s restaurant-a morning of cultural exploration paired perfectly with traditional Chinese noodles. Return to Xi’an city centre for an afternoon exploration through the famed Muslim Quarter. Walk through centuries-old alleyways lined with fragrant food stalls, neon signs and historic mosques–you’ll quickly see how incredible Xi’an’s confluence of imperial history blends perfectly with modern-day culture.

Catch the bullet train to Shanghai–a city where charming colonial architecture meets world class futurism. Arrive in the afternoon and take an orientation walk to get acquainted with the city, and stroll along the lively streets. Tonight, board an evening cruise along the Huangpu River for a different view of Shanghai’s iconic landmarks between the colonial-era Bund, Pearl Tower and Shanghai Tower-a spectacular introduction to the city.

Immerse yourself in the allure of Shanghai this morning on a walking tour. From quiet tree-lined streets to bustling "long-tang" alleys, traditional Shikumen buildings to French colonial architecture, and from tea shops to modern boutiques we will experience all sides of Shanghai. Then, sit down to a lunch of Shanghainese dumplings. Try the local favorite xiao long bao (soup dumplings) and other buns that are handmade and bursting with flavor. The rest of the afternoon is free to see Shanghai on your terms–head out for a cup of tea in a beautiful garden or browse a contemporary art gallery. Tonight, we wander the famous Bund, an iconic waterfront promenade listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.